Ibadan Young Professionals has cautioned the politicians and the fifth columnists against playing politics with the existing unity among the indigene of the land.
The group in a rejoinder to an online publication with the headline “Oyo 2027: Ibadan less city not subservient to Ibadan municipal.” described the report as an attempt to cause division in the land.
Engr. Taofeek Adelabu and TP Saheed in a jointly signed statement disclosed that the ancient city has a rich cultural heritage of migration from urban to urban centres.
The statement read in part, “Our city and less city are united in their shared values, traditions, and aspirations.
“We reject any attempt to sow discord and division among our people, and instead, we choose to celebrate our diversity and promote inclusivity.
“We would like to remind the public that our sitting Governor, Seyi Makinde, is from Ajia in Ona Ara Local Government area of Oyo state, which is part of Ibadan less city and a significant hub in Oyo state, while Alhaji Lam Adesina, born on Friday, January 20, 1939, is Ikija in Oluyole local government area of Oyo.
“Another former Governor of Oyo, Sen. Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja is from Laleye village of Akinyele local government area of Oyo, same as Late Gov. Kolapo Olawuyi Isola, who is also from Akinyele local government area of Oyo.
“This demonstrates that every eligible son and daughter of Ibadanland has a homestead in both the city and less city, fostering a sense of unity and inclusivity.
Governor Makinde’s leadership has exemplified this spirit of unity, working tirelessly to develop both urban and rural areas of Ibadanland.
“We are proud of our city’s reputation as a melting pot of cultures, where people from all walks of life coexist peacefully.
“We will not allow divisive elements to destroy this legacy of harmony and cooperation.
“Instead, we will continue to promote dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect among all stakeholders.
“Ibadan has a long history of cultural and religious tolerance, with people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds living together peacefully.
“The city has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous festivals and celebrations throughout the year, such as the Ibadan Cultural Festival and the Egungun Festival.”
These events bring our people together, promoting unity and social cohesion.
Our city is home to several institutions of higher learning, including the University of Ibadan, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Nigeria.
This has made Ibadan a hub for intellectual and academic pursuits, attracting scholars and researchers from across the country and beyond.
Ibadan has a thriving economy, with a mix of traditional and modern industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and services.
“Our city is known for its vibrant markets, such as the Bodija Market and the Oje Market, which provide employment opportunities for thousands of people.
“We have a strong tradition of community leadership and social responsibility, with many individuals and organisations working to promote the well-being of the city and its people.
“Our community leaders, traditional rulers, and religious leaders have always played a crucial role in promoting peace and unity in Ibadan.
“We warn politicians not to allow their selfish ambition to destroy Ibadan.
“We also sound a note of warning to hatchet writers masquerading under fictitious names to steer clear of Ibadan in their dirty game.
“Such persons will be fished out and dealt with according to the law if such actions persist.
“Let us continue to promote peace, understanding, and unity in our beloved Ibadan.
“We are one people, with a shared destiny and a common purpose”.